Do you have syphilis? Only a test can answer that.
It's not important how you get syphilis. It's only important that you get it treated, because it can cause serious harm to your body.
Lately, the buses have been covered in PSAs with the above text (both in English and espagnole). The graphic for the latter is a rather contemplative-looking woman. She appears to be thinking hard about how she might have gotten syphilis. Was it the massive orgy back in college? That wild night in Vegas a few months ago? Or perhaps something simpler, a little closer to home.
The signs are plastered all over the bus, so there's really no way to avoid them. I understand syphilis is a growing problem, and to say it can do lasting damage if left untreated is an understatement at best. But do I really need to be reminded of the ravages of the French disease every morning and every evening? My commute is unpleasant enough as it is without eyeing my fellow bus passengers and wondering how many have syphilis. And the worst part is, were I to ask them, they probably couldn't tell me. Only a test can answer that question.
UPDATE: Y'all, I just had my 16-week appointment with the OB. And sure enough, the test has answered that question. I do not have syphilis. I was pretty sure I didn't, but thanks to the good work of the signs, I knew I couldn't be absolutely sure. But now I can rest easy.
PSAs are so funny. Hey, maybe I should get tested.
Posted by: Yvonne | May 21, 2007 at 05:56 PM
I'm so glad to hear that you don't have VD.
Posted by: M&M | May 23, 2007 at 12:05 PM